TAKE AN ‘INSIDE LOOK’ AT SEAWORLD: SeaWorld guests are invited to get a peek behind the scenes of SeaWorld during Inside Look. This popular program returns in 2020, with special access to five animal areas of the park: orca open house, sea lion rescue story, animal rescue facility, Humboldt penguin habitat and pilot whale and dolphin presentation. At each of the animal areas, guests will receive special, up-close access and will be able to pose the questions they’ve always wanted to ask. Plus, some of SeaWorld’s most important community partners will be on hand to share how they partner with SeaWorld to help animals and the environment outside the park’s borders, including Helen Woodward Animal Center, Helping Paws, Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute and more. Guests who visit all six areas and get their map stamped can receive a collectible SeaWorld animal pin. Inside Look, which is open to any guest and included with park admission, takes place Feb. 8–9, Feb. 15–17, Feb. 22–23 Feb. 29–March 1

YEAR OF FUN AT SEAWORLD FOR UNDER $100: Want an Inside Look at SeaWorld? Craving savory treats from around the globe? Ready to take a dive on SeaWorld’s all-new floorless coaster this summer? SeaWorld guests can experience all that and more with a SeaWorld SoCal Resident Pass, on sale now for a limited time for under $100. With the SoCal Resident Pass in hand, all of SeaWorld’s seasonal events and new attractions are just a click away, including Inside Look in February, Seven Seas Craft Beer & Food Festival this spring, and SeaWorld’s new attraction for 2020, Emperor, which will be the fastest and tallest dive coaster in California, as well as the only floorless dive coaster in the state. The SoCal Resident Pass includes 12 months of unlimited visits to SeaWorld with no blockout dates, plus 50 percent off general parking. Cost is $99.99, and offer ends Feb. 9. 

CAMP SIGN-UP UNDER WAY: February is the perfect time to sign up for summer camp and registration is under way for SeaWorld Camps. Kids of all ages can get into some serious summer fun at SeaWorld’s camp programs, where activities include interactions with animals and behind-the-scenes looks at how they are cared for and trained. Day Camp is available for 1st through 6th graders on select weeks between June 29 and Aug. 7. Five-night Resident Camps for 5th through 12th graders take place June 14–Aug. 7. M

BUY NOW AND SPLASH LATER: Fans of Aquatica SeaWorld’s Waterpark can purchase a 2020 Aquatica Splash Pass now and splash all summer long. With experiences from serene (like the relaxing Loggerhead Lane lazy river) to extreme (such as the heart-pumping Taumata Racer), there’s something for everyone at Aquatica. For a limited time, the Splash Pass is on sale for $48.99 and can be purchased online. Aquatica, located at 2052 Entertainment Circle in Chula Vista, will be open for the season May 23 through Sept. 7.

ORLANDO, Fla. (Jan. 28, 2020) – Starting this weekend, Universal Orlando’s 2020 Mardi Gras Celebration kicks off with new and returning Cajun-style cuisine that is sure to excite foodies everywhere. From fan-favorite classics like Gumbo and Jambalaya to delectable new dishes inspired by carnivals worldwide – there are so many unique flavors to explore. See below for all the food and beverage options coming to this year’s Mardi Gras Celebration:
New Mardi Gras Dishes at Universal Studios Florida and Universal CityWalk
From February 1 through April 2, guests can enjoy new menu items at The French Quarter Courtyard at Universal Studios Florida and several locations in Universal CityWalk, including Voodoo Doughnut, The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen and more.

• NEW Carnival Around The Universe Tasting Tent: This all-new tasting tent in the French Quarter Courtyard will feature dishes inspired by carnivals worldwide with new menu items debuting bi-weekly throughout the event, including a variety of plant-based options:
  • Week 1 and 2 (Feb. 1 – Feb. 15) will feature cuisine from Trinidad & Tobago:
    • Grilled Pineapple Trini Chow: Topped with kimchi seasoning and micro cilantro (Plant-based)
    • Pholourie: Fried spicy split pea dough with turmeric, curry powder and a tamarind chutney (Plant-based)
    • Chickpea Double: Chickpeas served on a spicy bara flatbread with micro cilantro and mango chutney (Plant-based)
  • Week 3 and 4 (Feb. 16 – Feb. 29) will take guests back to where the Bayou Bash first began and explore Louisiana Creole cuisine even further:
    • Softshell Crab Slider: Crispy softshell crab topped with organic vegetable slaw and served on a soft brioche roll with bayou aioli
    • Cauliflower Dirty Rice: Riced cauliflower with Gardein crumbles, Black eyed peas and Cajun spices (Plant-based)
    • Pecan Street: A specialty cocktail with pecan vodka, caramel and apple cider
  • Week 5 and 6 (March 1 – March 14) will celebrate Brazilian Carnival with delicious treats:
    • Pão de Quiejo: Traditional warm cheese bread with a guava dipping sauce
    • Sugared Sweet Plantains: Covered in cinnamon and sugar and served with banana poppy seed dipping sauce (Plant-based)
    • The Girl from Ipanema: A specialty cocktail featuring gin, lime, orgeat syrup, coconut water and pineapple simple syrup
  • Week 7 and 8 (March 15 – April 2) will place you in the heart of Germany:
    • Sauerbraten: Slow braised beef, buttered Spaetzle, and pickled red cabbage topped with a savory red wine sauce
    • Grilled Bratwurst: Served on a potato pancake with whole grain mustard and sour cream and chives
    • And a warm pretzel!
• NEW ‘Float Floats’ at Schwab’s Pharmacy: Inspired by the all-new Mardi Gras parade float theme, Treasures of the Deep, Schwab’s Pharmacy will serve over-the-top ice cream floats to celebrate Florida’s biggest party, including:
  • Mardi Gras Float: Pineapple and lime soft serve with grape soda, blueberry Boba and a waffle cone flag
  • Shipwreck Float: Pineapple and chocolate soft serve with pineapple soda, cotton candy and a waffle cone flag
  • Sunken City of Atlantis Float: Vanilla soft serve with wild berry soda, mango Boba and a gummy shark
• New Specialty Cocktails and Non-Alcoholic Beverages: Also inspired by this year’s Mardi Gras theme, are new specialty cocktails served in exclusive souvenir cups including High Seas Twister with rum, blood orange liqueur, and watermelon juice, and the Bourbon Street Punch with bourbon, orgeat, coconut puree and orange juice to name a few. Plus, also new to this year’s event, are recommended food and drink pairings which can be found on the tasting tent menu boards. For the little jesters in the family, there are a variety of non-alcoholic beverages including the all-new coconut water that is served out of an actual coconut, which is available at The Carnival Around the Universe Tasting Tent during the first two weeks, and the fan-favorite Bayou Bog Water.
• New Orleans Flair at Universal CityWalk: New Mardi Gras themed food items will debut at Universal CityWalk at several locations, including Voodoo Doughnut, The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen and more:
  • For the doughnut lovers out there – head over to Voodoo Doughnut and pick up a yeast doughnut filled with cinnamon sugar Bavarian cream and topped with vanilla glaze and sprinkles inspired by the iconic Mardi Gras colors
  • Ever wanted to drink an iconic Mardi Gras king cake? The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen will be serving up The French Quarter artisan milkshake that includes king cake, cream cheese crema and pastry cream topped with king cake and a beignet
  • Seasonal cocktails throughout Universal CityWalk, including The Jester found at the food and beverage carts, Voodoo Doctor at Bob Marley – A Tribute to Freedom and Masquerade Martini at The Cowfish
  • Additional Mardi Gras inspired menu items can be found at venues across Universal CityWalk

Add-on New Orleans Inspired Experiences
As part of the family-friendly version of the renowned Big Easy bash, guests can also purchase festive Mardi Gras add-on experiences for guests craving more.

• Due to popular demand, The Mardi Gras Tasting Lanyard will return, allowing guests to sample multiple dishes and beverages for one price throughout the event. Whether guests are looking to enjoy all of this year’s food and beverage items, or sample just a few of the bold new additions, there are a variety of Mardi Gras Tasting Lanyard options to choose from starting at $30 plus tax. Among these options is an exclusive Passholder Tasting Lanyard, which includes 15 sample dishes for $60 plus tax.
• On select nights, The Bayou Boil – An Exclusive Mardi Gras Experience, will allow guests to enjoy a Louisiana-style boil featuring crawfish, shrimp, potatoes and corn-on-the-cob, as well as an exclusive viewing area for the Mardi Gras parade with king cake, beignets, sparkling wine and assorted non-alcoholic beverages. Tickets for adults are $59.99 plus tax, and tickets for children (ages 3-9) are $39.99 plus tax. Separate theme park admission is required.
• For guests with a sweet tooth, the Mardi Gras Feast & Floats Dessert Party is available on select nights from March 9 through April 2, giving them the best view of the Mardi Gras parade while enjoying specialty desserts, savory bites, hot chocolate, assorted non-alcoholic beverages, and sparkling wine and cider. But the party doesn’t stop there – guests will also have an exclusive viewing area for Universal Orlando’s Cinematic Celebration. Tickets for adults are $49.99 plus tax, and tickets for children (ages 3-9) are $29.99 plus tax. Separate theme park admission is required.

Returning Cajun Cuisine Favorites
Fans of the traditional and authentic New Orleans cuisine – don’t fret! Your favorite classic Cajun dishes will return to The French Quarter Courtyard at Universal Studios Florida including jambalaya, shrimp gumbo, crab etouffee, gator bites, a variety of po’boys, Cajun twisted tators, king cake, beignets and more.
Plus, as part of the Mardi Gras Celebration, guests enjoy a nightly Mardi Gras parade throughout the streets of Universal Studios Florida inspired by the all-new Treasures of the Deep parade theme, as well as performances by some of the biggest names in music, including world-renowned, chart-topping DJ and producer, Marshmello, the multi-platinum international star behind global smash-hits “Despacito” and “Échame La Culpa,” Luis Fonsi, and best-selling American girl group of all time, TLC, known for mega hits such as “Waterfalls,” “No Scrubs,” “Creep” and “Unpretty.” For the complete line-up and performance schedule, see below. ​

More than a billion animals and 12 million acres of habitat have been lost. The conservation impacts of this event will be substantial and long-term.

How zoos are responding to the crisis:
We’ve been in communication with our counterparts in Australia about the current situation, the immediate needs, and plans for sustained recovery efforts. At the moment, veterinarians and keepers from Zoos Victoria (Melbourne Zoo, Werribee Open Range Zoo, and Healesville Sanctuary) are assisting at wildlife triage centers, providing refuge for homeless animals, and preparing for the extensive rehabilitation work to come.

Zoos Victoria and their accreditation organization, the Zoo and Aquarium Association Australasia (ZAA), are coordinating a phased response for immediate support and the longer-term requirements of wildlife and habitat rehabilitation. The Los Angeles Zoo is supporting these efforts with our Australian Bushfire Relief Fund. All tax-deductible donations to this fund will go toward saving Australian wildlife and restoring habitats.
​
How you can make a difference:
Right now, our friends Down Under need two things – donations and awareness. You can help by

• Visiting the Zoo on Sunday, January 26, when a donation will be made in honor of everyone who passes through our gates
• Donating at any L.A. Zoo retail shop from January 26 through February 29
• Donating at our Australian Bushfire Relief Fund page
• Spreading the word on social media using #AustraliaWildlife and #LAZoo

We will continue to monitor the emerging needs as the situation evolves and will evaluate how the L.A. Zoo might contribute in other ways to the long-term recovery efforts.

The Zoo’s donation of $1 per guest on Sunday, January 26 is made possible by the generosity of Adam Stern and Erika Aronson. Donations made through the Zoo will benefit the Zoos Victoria Bushfire Emergency Wildlife Fund and the Zoo and Aquarium Association Australasia (ZAA) Wildlife Conservation Fund.

Universal City, CA, January 22, 2020 – The voice talent behind the lovable furry stars of Illumination’s global blockbuster hits The Secret Life of Pets and The Secret Life of Pets 2 unleash their animal instincts to reprise their roles in Universal Studios Hollywood’s lively new ride, “The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash!,” opening in Spring 2020, which answer the question, “What are your pets really doing when you’re not at home?”

This marks the first time the ensemble cast perform the voices of their iconic characters for a theme park attraction. The film’s talent and their alter egos include Patton Oswalt as Max, Kevin Hart as Snowball, Eric Stonestreet as Duke, Jenny Slate as Gidget, Tiffany Haddish as Daisy, Lake Bell as Chloe, Dana Carvey as Pops, Steve Coogan as Ozone, Chris Renaud as Norman, Hannibal Buress as Buddy, Bobby Moynihan as Mel, Jessica DiCicco as Princess and Tara Strong as Pickles.

            Adoption day is the ultimate rite of passage for every domesticated animal and the inspiration for this all-new immersive experience as guests assume the roles of stray puppies on the ultimate quest to find their forever homes.

The innovative ride will blend live, dimensional and animated characters with hyper-realistic media and projection mapping to fully immerse guests in a bustling New York City landscape.  Seated within ride vehicles that resemble cardboard boxes—reminiscent of where Katie first finds her beloved Max as a puppy—guests will travel along a track towards the Pet Adoption event and the ultimate happy ending: forever homes.

The state-of-the-art ride will employ a series of technological firsts that combine sophisticated facial recognition with enhanced gesture tracking, which helps to identify each guest as a unique stray puppy for the duration of the ride.  Every time guests experience “The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash!” they will likely see themselves characterized as a different stray puppy, creating a uniquely new experience with each ride.

“The Secret Life of Pets:  Off the Leash!” will be located on Pets Place, previously referred to as Baker Street, and adjacent to the popular “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” and “Super Silly Fun Land” attractions. With the installation of all-new store front facades, Pets Place will capture the charm of a busy NY street, including an iconic NYC subway station.

With so much to see and do at Universal Studios Hollywood, an Annual Pass invites guests to experience the theme park’s thrill and adventure over and over again. Visit www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com for more details and to save up to $60 on an Annual Pass when purchased online. Offer valid through March 2, 2020. Restrictions apply.

More information is available at www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com. Like Universal Studios Hollywood on Facebook and follow @UniStudios on Instagram and Twitter.

In preparation for the ride’s opening, Universal Studios Hollywood is seeking energetic actors and puppeteers to impersonate the voice of Snowball. To learn more and book an audition by appointment only, please visit www.USHAuditions.com.
 
About Universal Studios Hollywood
Universal Studios Hollywood is The Entertainment Capital of L.A. and includes a full-day, movie-based theme park and Studio Tour. As a leading global entertainment destination, Universal Studios Hollywood delivers highly themed immersive lands that translate to real-life interpretations of iconic movie and television shows. Attractions include “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™” which features a bustling Hogsmeade village and such critically-acclaimed rides as “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey” and “Flight of the Hippogriff™”, the new mega attraction “Jurassic World—The Ride,” and the soon to open all-new ride, “The Secret Life of Pets.” Other immersive lands include “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” and “Super Silly Fun Land” as well as “Springfield,” hometown of America’s favorite TV family, located adjacent to the award-winning “The Simpsons Ride™” and DreamWorks Theatre featuring “Kung Fu Panda Adventure.”  The world-renowned Studio Tour is Universal Studios Hollywood’s signature attraction, inviting guests behind-the-scenes of the world’s biggest and busiest movie and television production studio where they can also experience such thrill rides as “Fast & Furious—Supercharged” and “King Kong 360 3D.” The adjacent Universal CityWalk entertainment, shopping and dining complex also includes the all-new multi-million dollar, redesigned Universal CityWalk Cinema, featuring deluxe recliner seating in screening room quality theatres, and the “5 Towers” state-of-the-art outdoor concert stage.
 
About Illumination
Illumination, founded by Academy Award® nominee Chris Meledandri in 2007, is one of the entertainment industry’s leading producers of event-animated films.  The company’s releases include three of the top-eight animated films of all time, and its iconic, beloved franchises—infused with memorable and distinct characters, global appeal and cultural relevance—have grossed more than $6.6 billion worldwide.
 
Illumination, which has an exclusive financing and distribution partnership with Universal Pictures, is the creator of the hugely successful world of Despicable Me, which includes Minions, the third-highest-grossing animated film of all time and the most profitable film in Universal’s history, as well as the Academy Award®- nominated Despicable Me 2 and Despicable Me 3, which made more than $1 billion at the global box office.
 
Illumination recently launched two original properties that captivated audiences worldwide: The Secret Life of Pets, which achieved the best opening for an original movie, animated or otherwise, in U.S. history, and the global smash, Sing. And in 2018, Illumination’s Dr. Seuss’s The Grinch had the biggest opening weekend of any Christmas-themed movie in history. Illumination’s upcoming films include Minions: The Rise of Gru in July 2020 and Sing 2 in Summer 2021.
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